Patrick Holleron is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Veritas Prep High School for AZPreps365.com

In Henry Rathsburg’s first three years of high school at Veritas Prep, the only sport he participated in was boys soccer. 

Deep down, his ultimate goal was to play tackle football at some point. Henry developed a strong passion for football during his childhood, when he would watch NFL games with his family every Sunday. 

“He's always loved football, ever since he was a little kid,” Henry’s mom, Jennifer Rathsburg, said. “He knew every football player and never missed a game on Sunday. I just would laugh because I'm like, ‘How do you know every football player in the NFL?’”

Jennifer and her husband, Bill Rathsburg, prevented Henry from playing football in the past due to concerns about the serious injuries associated with the sport. 

“I teach at Veritas,” Jennifer said. “I see all the football players come into class on crutches or miss days because they got a concussion. And I didn’t want that for Henry. It was kind of selfish on my part, but at the same time I wanted to protect him from getting injured.”

While watching his friends play in Veritas' 42-18 playoff loss to Holbrook last November, Henry's desire to play football only grew as he felt he could be a difference-maker for the team. Late in his junior year, Henry decided he couldn't wait any longer and sternly announced to his parents he would play football at any cost.

“It's my senior year of high school,” Henry said. “All my friends were all on the team. I know I have the speed and skills to play at a high level. I felt like I could be a good addition to this team.”

What ultimately led to Henry's parents signing off on him playing football was the fear of whether not allowing him to play could negatively impact his mental health. 

Henry Rathsbrug and his family pose for a picture during their vacation in Carlsbad, California.  (Henry Rathsburg photo)

“We just thought if we tell him no, it could psychologically hurt him,” Bill said. “In the long run, the risk of not playing may be greater than the risk of a physical injury.” 

When spring practice started  in April, the Veritas Prep coaching staff decided the best positions for Henry would be wide receiver and safety. Henry was challenged to use his hands more as he transitioned from playing center in soccer where he would solely rely on his feet. 

“In soccer, you don't use your hands at all,” Henry said. “That was the biggest adjustment, getting used to catching balls. When I'm running around, I don't focus on what I’m doing with my hands.”

With the reality of this being his only opportunity to play football, Henry has strived to be as productive as possible in every game he plays. 

“Our first loss (Veritas Prep) to San Tan Charter was a heartbreaker because I messed up a lot of plays, especially when I was playing safety on defense,” Henry said. “I was missing tackles and looking at the film I got mad at myself because those were lost opportunities. After that game I just told myself  ‘I have to step it up.’”

Along with internal pressure to contribute, Henry has been forced to solely play safety recently due to a broken hand. He believes he suffered the injury  in September during Veritas Prep’s 42-17 win over Shadow Mountain. When he went to the doctor to see the severity of the injury, Henry was determined to play in the upcoming game against Scottsdale Christian at any cost. 

“He (Henry) was devastated,” Jennifer said. “He kept sending me text messages while he was in the doctor's office saying ‘I'm playing tomorrow, I have to play tomorrow!’ I think the doctor knew Henry was gonna play no matter what he told him. So he told Henry if he wanted to play he had to wear a cast to protect his hand.”

The injury has not deterred Henry's confidence. If anything, it has given him additional motivation to perform at a high level. Through the Falcons’ first six games he has seven receptions for 254 yards and six touchdowns on offense along with one interception on defense. 

Although he is not a team captain, Henry feels he has a responsibility as one of the only seniors on the team to set a good example for his younger teammates.

“I've been doing my best to be a leader to them (underclassmen),” Henry said. “When they make a mistake, I'm there to correct it, to help them be better next time. I just want to guide all the underclassmen on the right path for the years to come. Make sure they make smart decisions, play their hearts out, and leave it all on the field. Just like how my fellow seniors have taught me.”

While he would love nothing more than to win a state title, Henry will always be grateful for the memories, friendships, and support from his family. He will carry these experiences with him for years to come. 

“I love all my teammates and coaches,” Henry said. “I can't thank my parents enough for their support. They come to all my games and are always asking me how I am at the end of the games. I want to win a state title for everyone who has been a part of my journey. It's a great way to finish off my senior year and to remember for the rest of my life. I can tell that to my kids and hopefully inspire them.”